Agricultural News
Genomics Tools Translate into More Net Dollars Earned
Wed, 12 Mar 2014 11:44:29 CDT
Cattlemen may not have time to become experts in genomics and DNA, but they can still use the tools to get ahead says Milt Thomas, a geneticist at Colorado State University.
"One things ranchers need to know, is just like all the algorithms that go behind an EPD, you don't have to know how all that works. What you need to know is how the output of the EPD works."
Genomics, the study of an animal's whole DNA sequence, will keep improving as a resource as long as cattlemen interact with researchers.
"Most people today may not know that if they are using an EPD on a pretty high-accuracy Angus bull, they are already using the genome enhanced EPD. So, it will continue to evolve. The question is how do we work together as industry partners, university scientists and breeders to move this technology forward," Thomas says.
To those unfamiliar with the technology or just beginning to use genomic tools in their herds, Thomas says don't lose heart.
"I think the key to any kind of technology implementation is to learn all you can until you become comfortable. Even me, as a scientist, I'm not very comfortable every day. We learn something new every day. That's our challenge. But, I think that's the key to it is that when you're not comfortable with something then you're less likely to use it. So, I just encourage people to keep learning."
While knowledge makes ranchers more comfortable, use of the technology will translate into more net dollars earned when it comes time to market.
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